Gunfire and explosions were heard near Miraflores Palace in Caracas on Monday night, raising fresh security concerns just days after former president Nicolás Maduro was captured and taken to the United States.
Local media and unverified social media footage reported heavy gunfire in the vicinity of the presidential complex, with residents describing a tense atmosphere as security forces flooded the area.
Videos obtained by CNN appeared to show flashes in the night sky believed to be lights from drones and anti-aircraft fire over the capital.
Other footage circulating online showed armed men carrying heavy weapons, as well as military convoys and security patrols positioned around streets leading to the palace. Residents were seen taking cover as forces tightened security in the area.
According to local reports, the gunfire began around 8 p.m. local time following claims that unidentified drones were sighted near the palace, further fueling confusion.
The White House has denied any involvement in the gunfire incident.
CNN later reported that the shooting was the result of a “misunderstanding,” citing discussions among paramilitary groups linked to the regime which suggested confusion between different security units operating near the palace.
As of late Monday night, there were no confirmed reports of injuries or fatalities. Authorities had also not issued any official statement on possible damage, arrests, or the precise cause of the security breach.
Officials have not confirmed whether the incident was directly linked to the country’s deepening political crisis.
The reported gunfire came just hours after Vice President Delcy Rodríguez was sworn in as acting president following the detention of Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, during a US military operation over the weekend.